New Calderdale Parkruns on the starting blocks

Plans are gearing up a new fun fitness event in Brighouse and Todmorden following the success of Halifax Parkrun and Calderdale Council is on the lookout for volunteers to help manage it.

It’s now a year since Halifax Parkrun got going at Shroggs Park, with an average of over 100 people taking part every week.

The free 5km timed leisure run is open to people of all ages, abilities and experience.

Events are free to attend and runners simply register online in advance and print out a barcode which they present on the day of the run to find out their running time.

Calderdale Council is keen to promote this as part of its aim to get people moving more and help the district become the most active borough in the north of England.

People who could take on the role of Parkrun Event Director at each venue are being urged to come forward. They would be responsible for managing their allocated Parkrun and working with volunteers and marshals on a Saturday morning.

Sue Jones, Halifax Parkrun Event Director, said: “Saturday has become my favourite day of the week because of Parkrun. Although it took a bit of effort to get it going, the support from Parkrun and the local Parkrun ambassador made it easy.

“We’ve now got a great core group of volunteers who share the responsibilities each week.

“It’s fantastic to be part of something so positive and see a welcoming and supportive community build up around you. As much as I’ve put into Parkrun, I’ve received more back from a personal point of view.”

Paul Butcher, Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health, said:“Parkrun is a fantastic, free, sociable way to get moving more.

“It doesn’t matter if you haven’t done any exercise for a while – it’s a friendly environment and everyone is welcome. We’re excited to bring Parkrun to more areas to help even more people get involved. It’s part of our aim to inspire and enable people to make simple lifestyle changes to live more active, healthier, happier and longer lives.

“If you want to make a difference and lead one of the new runs, we would love to hear from you.”